HS Code for Radioactive isotopes
Radioactive isotopes and their compounds are classified under HS code 2844.43. This code is part of Chapter 28, which deals with inorganic chemicals and precious metal compounds. Heading 2844 is specifically for radioactive chemical elements and radioactive isotopes. Subheading 2844.43 is a residual category for radioactive elements, isotopes, and compounds other than those specified in 2844.10 (natural uranium), 2844.20 (enriched uranium/plutonium), or 2844.30 (depleted uranium/thorium). This classification includes a wide range of isotopes used in medical diagnostics, industrial radiography, and scientific research. The classification is determined by the radioactive nature of the material, regardless of its physical form (e.g., liquid, solid, or gas) or its chemical composition, provided it contains radioactive isotopes. These materials are highly regulated due to their hazardous nature and potential for dual-use in both civilian and military applications.
Products Included
- Cobalt-60 isotopes
- Iodine-131 for medical use
- Cesium-137 sources
- Iridium-192 for industrial radiography
- Radioactive compounds for PET scans (e.g., Fluorodeoxyglucose)
- Americium-241 (when not in smoke detector assemblies)
Common Misclassification
Radioactive isotopes are often confused with non-radioactive isotopes, which are classified under HS code 2845.90. The presence of radioactivity is the defining factor for Chapter 2844. Another common error is classifying medical isotopes under Chapter 30 (Pharmaceutical products). While they are used in medicine, General Note 1 to Chapter 30 states that radioactive isotopes are excluded from that chapter and must remain in Chapter 28. Furthermore, fissile materials like Plutonium-239 must be classified under 2844.20, not 2844.43.
FAQ
What is the HS code for radioactive isotopes?
The HS code for radioactive isotopes and their compounds (excluding uranium, thorium, and plutonium) is 2844.43.
Are radioactive isotopes used in medicine classified as drugs?
No, for customs purposes, radioactive isotopes used in medicine are classified under HS code 2844.43 rather than as pharmaceutical products in Chapter 30.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Radioactive isotopes?
The HS code for Radioactive isotopes is 284443 (Radioactive elements, isotopes and compounds; other alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing these elements, isotopes or compounds).
How do I classify Radioactive isotopes for customs?
Radioactive isotopes is classified under HS code 284443 — Radioactive elements, isotopes and compounds; other alloys, dispersions (including cermets), ceramic products and mixtures containing these elements, isotopes or compounds. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Radioactive isotopes the same in all countries?
The base HS code 284443 for Radioactive isotopes is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.